How Do I Choose the Lightest Luggage?

With the right luggage, a traveler is able to efficiently carry the gear he or she needs. Often, having the lightest luggage available can be beneficial because it is easier to carry, allowing a traveler to move more rapidly. When searching for the lightest luggage, it's important to keep five factors in mind. These factors are how often the individual travels, the luggage's material, size, style and cost.

One of the biggest concerns when looking at luggage is how much traveling is going to be done. If travel is somewhat infrequent, then often a lower quality product will suffice. On the other hand, if a substantial amount of traveling is done, then it's usually a good idea to purchase better quality luggage that can withstand some wear and tear.

The desired quality of the luggage can also affect the choice of material. There are numerous types of material on the market, but quality is often evidenced in the denier. The higher the denier number, the stronger the material, and the lower the denier number, the weaker the material. Lesser quality luggage is typically under 1,000 denier, while higher quality is over 1,800.

The size of the lightest luggage should generally be on the smaller end. In order to be considered lightweight luggage, the product should be no more than ten pounds while empty. Many times a simple carry-on will be enough to carry a traveler's gear. If the individual plans on hauling a substantial amount of gear, then usually rolling luggage on wheels is the best choice. This makes it possible to haul quite a bit while minimizing the effective weight.

Style should also be considered when choosing the lightest luggage. This is more important for some people than others, but the individual should be happy with the look. Color and the overall appearance should primarily be taken into account. Also, nylon frames tend to work well when trying to keep weight at a minimum. Aluminum and other frame materials tend to be heavier and more cumbersome.

Cost is often another factor when looking for the lightest luggage. Like most products, a higher cost tends to mean a higher quality product and vice versa. Many of the better products are lightweight, but still made from long lasting, durable materials. Often selecting a higher end item will benefit frequent travelers in the long run. If minimal traveling is expected, then sometimes lower priced luggage will be sufficient.

It's usually a smart idea to look around for at least two or three options before making a purchase. This will give travelers better odds of finding the right deal. Both online or brick and mortar luggage stores can be good shopping choices.